“We wanted to make sure patients, clinicians, researchers, nonprofits, everyone, could share in our fight against breast cancer. It’s truly heartening to see the community unite this way.”
KAKAAKO, Hawaii (KHON2) — More than 200 local breast cancer community members spent their Sunday surrounded by pink balloons, shirts, carnations and more in the inaugural Ohana Pink event.
They gathered at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center Hawaii “to share the latest medical and health information, find inspiration and share heartfelt support.
The event kicked off with an oli performed by Mahea Wong before breast cancer survivors part of the Wahine Hula Akala hula group took the stage.
After opening performances concluded, breast cancer patient and patient empowerment advocate Susan Hirano shared her experiences with cancer in her “A Thriver’s Journey” address.
Two-time cancer survivor and director of the UH Cancer Center Naoto T. Ueno shared how the Cancer Center works to make a difference and how “he is excited by progress in the field.”
The support we received for ‘Ohana Pink was overwhelming. We held this event because my breast-cancer patients asked for it and said they needed it. We wanted to make sure patients, clinicians, researchers, nonprofits, everyone, could share in our fight against breast cancer. It’s truly heartening to see the community unite this way.
Jami Fukui, UH Cancer Center researcher and clincian
Following the ceremony, attendees visited the Sullivan Conference Center to find informational tables lining the walkways, learn from presenters and catch up on the latest research and practices related to breast cancer.
After reconnecting with old friends and making new ones, the Ohana Pink event concluded with a Zumbathon fundraiser.